Reimagining a classic: Year 12 Drama students explore Antigone

Reimagining a classic: Year 12 Drama students explore Antigone
Posted on September 08, 2026
The Macleans College Year 12 Drama production brought a fresh and engaging perspective to the ancient Greek tragedy Antigone.
The production was inspired by an adaptation by Splendid Productions, a theatre and education company. Drawing on this approach, the students combined humour, music and theatrical techniques to create a lively and contemporary interpretation of the play.
The Level 2 Drama students incorporated techniques inspired by German playwright Bertolt Brecht to create an episodic retelling of the play. The production moved between energetic, clown-led games and more serious scenes from the original text.
This contrast between playful and dramatic moments highlighted the enduring relevance of Antigone, prompting the audience to reflect on issues of authority, individual freedom and the consequences of challenging the law. Although written more than 2,000 years ago, the play continues to raise issues that remain relevant today.
The students were proud to perform for their peers in the senior Classical Studies classes, as well as a full house of whānau and friends who came along to support the production.